Lenovo Dual Rate 10G/25G SFP28 85C Transceiver

Engineered for modern data centers, Lenovo’s Dual Rate 10G/25G SFP28 85C Transceiver delivers flexible, high-performance fiber connectivity that scales with your network needs. This plug-in SFP28 module supports both 10GBase-SR and 25GBase-SR, enabling seamless upgrades from 10G to 25G without replacing your existing optics or switching hardware. Designed to work across Lenovo ThinkSystem servers, switches, and compatible SFP28-enabled devices, this transceiver provides a reliable, hot-pluggable solution for dense rack deployments, virtualization workloads, and high-speed storage networks. With an industrial-grade 85°C rating, it is built to endure demanding data-center environments while maintaining optimal performance and link integrity. Whether you are building a new data fabric, expanding a storage-area network, or refreshing legacy infrastructure, this transceiver offers consistent, scalable bandwidth with minimal disruption.

• Flexible dual-rate performance for future-proof networking. This SFP28 transceiver supports both 10GBase-SR and 25GBase-SR, enabling smooth migration paths from legacy 10G links to 25G high-speed connections. Designed for short-reach fiber links, it delivers robust performance across a wide range of data-center scenarios—from rack-to-rack interconnects to top-of-rack and spine-leaf architectures. The dual-rate capability reduces procurement complexity and lets you standardize on a single optic family while still meeting immediate needs and long-term scalability. It is ideal for hyperscale deployments, a campus-style network, or enterprise environments that require agile bandwidth provisioning without the overhead of replacing existing cabling runs.
• Industrial-grade reliability with an 85°C rating for demanding environments. The transceiver is engineered to operate reliably in challenging data-center conditions, including high-density racks, continuous workloads, and variable cooling scenarios. The 85°C temperature rating extends device life and reduces the risk of thermal throttling or failure in hot-aisle environments. With strict manufacturing quality and RoHS compliance, this module maintains stable performance over time, preserving link budgets and minimizing downtime—critical factors for service-level agreements and customer satisfaction.
• High-bandwidth SR optics optimized for multimode fiber. The 850 nm short-reach (SR) optical technology is tailored for multimode fiber installations, delivering low-latency, high-bandwidth links within a data center. By leveraging 25GBASE-SR for high-speed server-to-switch communications and 10GBASE-SR where applicable, you gain substantial throughput without sacrificing compatibility. The module typically supports MMF fiber types (such as OM3/OM4) with LC duplex connectors, making it compatible with standard, widely deployed fiber infrastructures. This enables dense deployment of high-performance workloads, virtualization tasks, and data-intensive applications while maintaining cost-effective cabling strategies.
• Plug-and-play installation with seamless device compatibility. The SFP28 form factor is designed for effortless hot-swapping in SFP28-enabled switches and servers. No additional cables or complex configurations are required for basic operation—connect the fiber link and power on your devices, then use your switch or server management interface to enable the desired speed. The module is compatible with Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and other SFP28-capable devices, ensuring broad interoperability across your vendor ecosystem. This plug-and-play nature reduces maintenance time, accelerates deployment, and minimizes the risk of configuration errors during upgrades or migrations.
• Energy-efficient design to lower total cost of ownership. In addition to high performance, the transceiver emphasizes power efficiency to help reduce cooling requirements and energy costs in dense data-center environments. By delivering the necessary bandwidth with a compact, low-power footprint, this module supports higher port density without dramatically increasing heat output. For operators seeking sustainable, cost-conscious networking solutions, the Lenovo Dual Rate SFP28 transceiver offers a compelling balance of speed, reliability, and efficiency.

Technical Details of Lenovo Dual Rate 10G/25G SFP28 85C Transceiver

• Form Factor: SFP28
• Data Rates: Dual-rate support for 10GBase-SR and 25GBase-SR
• Wavelength: 850 nm (short-reach SR optics)
• Fiber Type: Multimode fiber (MMF) compatible; typically used with OM3/OM4 cabling
• Connector: LC duplex
• Maximum Link Distance: Optimized for short-reach deployments (typical SR ranges on MMF); exact distance depends on fiber grade and installation
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to 85°C (industrial-grade)
• Compliance: SFP28 MSA, RoHS-compliant, Lenovo-qualified for ThinkSystem and compatible SFP28-enabled devices
• Power and Efficiency: Designed for low power consumption with a compact footprint to support high-density deployments
• Compatibility: Supports Lenovo ThinkSystem servers, ThinkSystem switches, and other SFP28-capable networking devices

How to install Lenovo Dual Rate 10G/25G SFP28 85C Transceiver

• Power down or safely shut down the device if required by your maintenance policy, then locate the SFP28 slot on your switch or server module.
• Remove the dust cap from the transceiver and inspect the slot to ensure it is clean and ready for insertion.
• Align the transceiver with the SFP28 slot and gently insert until the module clicks into place, ensuring the data pins are properly seated and the latch engages securely.
• Connect the appropriate multimode fiber cable with LC duplex connectors, ensuring correct polarity and that the fiber ends are clean and properly terminated.
• Power on the device, access the management console, and configure the interface to operate at 10G or 25G according to your network design. Verify link status, negotiate the correct speed, and monitor the link health to confirm a stable connection.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What devices is this transceiver compatible with? A: It is designed for Lenovo ThinkSystem servers and switches and is compatible with other SFP28-enabled devices that support 10G/25G SR optics.
• Q: Can I use this transceiver for 25G alone, or does it require 10G as well? A: The module supports dual-rate operation, so you can configure it for either 10G or 25G as needed by your network design.
• Q: What fiber type should I use? A: Short-reach 25G/10G SR optics typically use multimode fiber (MMF), such as OM3 or OM4, with LC duplex connectors. Check your fiber certification and link budget for your specific distance requirements.
• Q: Does this module require any firmware updates? A: In most cases, standard installation works without additional firmware, but for best results, verify that your device firmware supports the SFP28 dual-rate transceiver and follow Lenovo guidance for qualified firmware versions.
• Q: Is the transceiver hot-swappable? A: Yes. The SFP28 transceiver is designed for hot-swapping in compatible switches and servers, enabling non-disruptive upgrades in active networks.